A Life and Style Blog

Under $50.00

I’ve tried my fair share of beauty products this year. Some were duds and some were game changers for me. So I thought I would share all my favorites because these are perfect ideas for stocking stuffers!

Rubber Facial Scrubbers– I have debated for a seriously long time on getting a clarisonic. Done a ton of research and watched a ton of reviews. But I came across some of these little silicone scrubbers at TJ MAXX one time and decided to give them a try. For starters these are much more sanitary for your skin than a brush scrubber. They are also much more affordable and much easier to clean. I love these and they are available at Wal-Mart for under $3.00! These get a really good clean on your skin and I like to think this has helped with my occasional break out.

Outer Space Flexible Hair Spray– Yes I still use hair spray. Got to keep that hair looking fresh to death all day! And this is my absolute favorite. Like I had a meltdown when I ran out and wouldn’t be able to get more for a few days. The hold and the flexibility of this hairspray is unlike any other. It just does it’s job without being crunchy or sticky. And the smell is out of this world. A+ for the packaging as well.

Gimme Brow– Okay, I hate to admit this, but I’ve never done anything to my eyebrows before this year. Just tweezed and that’s that. Why? Because no company makes a good brow product for gingers. There was nothing light enough to make it not look like I was wearing clown makeup. Sure I could go through the trouble of finding a match in an eyeshadow and making it work, but let’s be honest, that’s too much work. This year Benefit Cosmetics came out with a new color for their brow products. And it works amazing for people with the lightest shade of eyebrows. I love this product, like seriously it’s made a difference. My brows aren’t overly dramatic but at least I feel like they are more “on fleek” now.

Sally Hansen Miracle Gel– I started getting gel nail manicures this year. I hadn’t had a manicure in ages and loved the long wear of the polish since I work with my hands a lot. But that got extremely pricey. Seriously mad props to all you ladies who do this on a regular basis and have the cutest designs. I would just rather spend that money on tacos or a new bag. So I started looking for at home polishes that would have a long result. So I tried a bunch. Had some real failures. Enter Sally Hansen Miracle Gel. Lots of color options, long lasting and work tested. Plus much safer and affordable.

Aveda Volumizing Tonic– I have been testing all kinds of products to get some great volume in my hair for that messy chic look. This bottle of amazingness is my ticket for fresh washed hair and getting all the oomph I need. The only downfall with this product is the smell isn’t great. But it seriously helps me achieve that blow out volume look I have been aiming for.

Dry Bar Round Brush– So I have changed my hair big time. Last year I did a huge chop and have been playing around with the actual cut ever since. After lots of practice, watching videos and talking with stylist, I have finally figured out how to blow dry my hair properly and to get the style and volume I want. So I decided to invest in a good round brush. This brush might be a little more pricey than what you would consider, but it really does make a world of difference.

Kat Von D Eyeshadow Quad– I have purchased this before, but re-purchased. You know that’s when you love something, right? The formula is just the best on these eyeshadows. So creamy and so easy to blend. If you aren’t a pro with eye makeup, this is a great brand to try. It’s pretty much fool proof. That’s how creamy and well these blend. To be honest I’m still probably blending wrong but it looks fine!

Rootfoot Rose Water– I have been taking my skin care very seriously this year. Maybe it’s because I’m getting closer to middle age but oh well. This spray is soothing, calming and even moisturizing. This saved my skin during the summer. Any time I was in the sun, afterwards I would use this. I didn’t peel the entire season. This never happens. I’m also noticing with cooler weather and dry heat from the car, work and home I have been using this more and more for a skin drink.

Fall is only 21 days away yet it’s already creeping in, so it’s time to get your closet ready. Fall seems like a fresh start with your wardrobe but it can be a little harder to do on a budget. I have rounded up a few things, all under $50.00 (most under $30.00) to help you add to your fall wardrobe from some affordable fashion stores like Target, H&M, and Old Navy. Also these items which I think are must haves may also help you shop your own closet.

Striped Scarf– This scarf is perfect for transitioning but can be worn through out the season on cooler days. It adds perfect pops of colors and patterns that are popular this season.

Belt– If you don’t usually wear belts this is the season to try it. Belts are popular this season by twisting the belt instead of just plain buckling, giving you shape to over sized and loose clothing and there are extremely affordable to add to your closet (and a must).

Bootie– Booties are still popular this season but more so due to the boyfriend jeans being the jean of the season. These go perfect with jeans cuffed or with dresses. They are so versatile and everyone needs a pair.

T-Shirt Dress– An affordable way to transition to the fall season and yet something you can wear all year. With a simple shape it is easy to add layers for colder days, but it’s also perfect on it’s on. Also with the simple style it can be style many different ways; sneakers for a sporty vibe or worn with a blazer and pumps for work.

Short Coat– It’s not completely time to be investing in a coat but then again it kind of is. I really like this short coat because it reminds me of Mad Men, the color is the perfect white for “after Labor Day” and it could be transitioned easily into your winter wear. Plus this stylish coat is under $50.00

Striped Shirt– Striped shirts are very easy to style and are easy to transition from summer to fall to winter. Stripes are also very versatile so they will fit every style.

Cardigans– Cardigans are a must for fall, not only for warmth but also for simple layers. A cardigan can help you transform summer dresses and tops to fall which is an affordable addition. I like finding neutral cardigans but this year adding an olive color or a purple is a must!

Hat– I have raved about hats for the past year and how much I love them. They are perfect for adding a touch of boho style or fixing a bad hair day. Hats are just one extra touch that takes your #ootd to the next level.

Bag– Large leather (or faux) bags are big for this season, I especially like the leather totes that are bigger so they can fit everything I need into my bag for school days, blogging days and even a night stay somewhere in the mountains.

Tank– These tanks from Old Navy fit perfectly and can be worn by anyone with any style. It’s perfect for days when it may be warmer during the afternoon and also a great base for layering. Even though it’s getting colder doesn’t mean everything has to be bulky and thick. If you are hot natured like I am, tanks are perfect for layering without getting to hot! Plus right now they are only $4.00!.

I can not for the life of me believe there are only 17 days until Christmas. Hopefully you all are having a great start to the holidays. I have rounded up some of my favorite things that would be perfect for any lady in your life, plus everything is $50.00 and under. These picks are all things I love or would love to receive so hopefully you will too. Remember if you are shopping online it is best to get your orders done by the 10th so you will receive them in time!!

5. Furry Blanket– This blanket from Target is heaven and it is on sale this week for $20.00!

6. Faux Fur Scarf– Target has the greatest accessories, and since fur is a big deal this season, I think this scarf/snood would make a perfect gift, especially since it’s $20.00!

7. Jamberry Nails– Jamberry nails are my newest obsession! For $15.00 you can get two manicures and two pedicures from one sheet! There are so many designs that will fit everyone’s style. But remember you need to order by the 10th!

8. The Great Gatsby– No matter whom she is, she will love this DVD, and you can get a collectors addition for $18.00 at Target, or the regular for $10.00.

9. Target Soy Blend Candles– These candles are amazing! They smell great, burn great and are $10.00 for the large candle! The Cozy Nights and Pumpkin Cheesecake smells great!

11. Viva La Jewels Sweatshirt– I love this graphic sweat shirt and it would be perfect for any fashionista in your life. This sweatshirt is only $35.00!!!! Plus you can receive 10% off your purchase by using code:stephanierep!!

12. Threshold White Deer Head– Target has some really great home decor! This is a Christmas decoration but would be great for all year on a dresser, night stand or vanity. I also think this would make a cute and unique necklace holder for $25.00!

13. Merona Bag– This bag looks expensive, and sits perfect on the body for only $35.00!

14. Starbucks Water Color Mug– The Starbucks holiday coffee mug collection this year is on point! All the cups are so cute and only $11.00!

15. Ashkal Rings– I’ve said it plenty of times that I love this company! I wear my ring every single day! This size ring is only $20.00, and these fit every style of woman! Hurry and try to order this week to get it by Christmas!

16. UP MOVE– This is the newest in a fitness tracker. This one is a clip so it doesn’t have to cramp your style and has more features as far as food monitoring. This tracker comes in at $50.00 and would be perfect for any lady who is a fitness junkie or someone who is wanting to get in better shape!

17. Sam and Libby Weekender Bag– The moment I saw this bag, I fell in love. The bag is a mixture of gold and silver and would be great for a travel lover or a student (I think this would be great for a school bag)! For a brand collaboration with Target, this bag is really affordable at $50.00!

I did just buy some new things for Fall, but it’s still not everything I wanted. Unfortunately I shop on a budget and can’t drop a lot of money at one time, it has to be done collectively. Here are some final things I would love to add to my closet and vanity for the Fall. And they are all under $50.00, how awesome is that?

2. Revolt Super Flare Jeans-$47.00. This year we are seeing a surge in reoccurring styles, all the decades with less emphasis on the 80’s now. I have always steered from flared jeans, but I think a super flare could be just the right pair for me. I love this dark wash and think this can be very boho or very dressed up. Plus from Alloy.com they come in a range of sizes so everyone can enjoy this trend. I tried on a pair at Belk that were 90.00, just too much for a pair of jeans, these are still pricey, but can see them very wearable and going into future seasons.

3. Long Large Starburst Pendant-$14.00. I have been wanting the House of Harlow version of this necklace for some time now. But with the price tag of 80.00, I’ve never had the guts to splurge on it. When I came across a dupe on ShopLately, I knew it was fate to have it.

4. Bauble Bar’s Tiered Crystal Pendant-$34.00. This necklace is perfection. Layering, a crystal, gold, what’s not to love? Such a versatile yet simple piece is just what I was looking for and of course found it at Bauble Bar. Also if you sign up for their e-mail you will get 15% off your first order.

5. Mossimo Sweater-$20.00. I want a comfy, cozy, fun colored sweater and Target is just the right spot for that. These are so affordable at 20.00 each (generally cheaper using the Cartwheel App), I can’t help but want one.

6. Target’s Dawn Ankle Booties– $35.00. I really want a super short ankle bootie, one that doesn’t come up to my ankle because I find they are sometimes unflattering on my legs. These are the perfect length and style, and these can go through future seasons with me.

7. Zara’s Croc Bucket Bag– $40.00. I have been looking for a larger, nicer bag that would allow for me to pack art supplies along with a wallet. I haven’t found anything that fits by sketchbook or my budget. I have literally been on the hunt since summer. I looked at the outlets at the beach but didn’t want to fork out that much money for something as an “art tote” plus didn’t want to spend that much money on something and have the inside ruined by ink, markers, paint or pencils. I’ve even looked at discount places like TJ Maxx and Marshalls but still thought the ones I found were too much. Looking at more affordable places like Target and Forever 21 didn’t appeal to me either because the material just looked to fake for upwards of 40.00. So when I found this textured bag, it looks expensive but has an awesome price tag.

8. Michael Todd True Organics Moisture Lite Lotion– $29.00. I have hear rave reviews about this moisturizer and am dying to try something new. I have been using the Clinique moisturizer since high school, and I think my skin is getting used to it, so I need to try something new. I am willing to spend more money on my skin due to it being so sensitive. Also when you go to the website if you sign up for the e-mail you will get 10% off your first order..

I did just buy some new things for Fall, but it’s still not everything I wanted. Unfortunately I shop on a budget and can’t drop a lot of money at one time, it has to be done collectively. Here are some final things I would love to add to my closet and vanity for the Fall. And they are all under $50.00, how awesome is that?

2. Revolt Super Flare Jeans-$47.00. This year we are seeing a surge in reoccurring styles, all the decades with less emphasis on the 80’s now. I have always steered from flared jeans, but I think a super flare could be just the right pair for me. I love this dark wash and think this can be very boho or very dressed up. Plus from Alloy.com they come in a range of sizes so everyone can enjoy this trend. I tried on a pair at Belk that were 90.00, just too much for a pair of jeans, these are still pricey, but can see them very wearable and going into future seasons.

3. Long Large Starburst Pendant-$14.00. I have been wanting the House of Harlow version of this necklace for some time now. But with the price tag of 80.00, I’ve never had the guts to splurge on it. When I came across a dupe on ShopLately, I knew it was fate to have it.

4. Bauble Bar’s Tiered Crystal Pendant-$34.00. This necklace is perfection. Layering, a crystal, gold, what’s not to love? Such a versatile yet simple piece is just what I was looking for and of course found it at Bauble Bar. Also if you sign up for their e-mail you will get 15% off your first order.

5. Mossimo Sweater-$20.00. I want a comfy, cozy, fun colored sweater and Target is just the right spot for that. These are so affordable at 20.00 each (generally cheaper using the Cartwheel App), I can’t help but want one.

6. Target’s Dawn Ankle Booties– $35.00. I really want a super short ankle bootie, one that doesn’t come up to my ankle because I find they are sometimes unflattering on my legs. These are the perfect length and style, and these can go through future seasons with me.

7. Zara’s Croc Bucket Bag– $40.00. I have been looking for a larger, nicer bag that would allow for me to pack art supplies along with a wallet. I haven’t found anything that fits by sketchbook or my budget. I have literally been on the hunt since summer. I looked at the outlets at the beach but didn’t want to fork out that much money for something as an “art tote” plus didn’t want to spend that much money on something and have the inside ruined by ink, markers, paint or pencils. I’ve even looked at discount places like TJ Maxx and Marshalls but still thought the ones I found were too much. Looking at more affordable places like Target and Forever 21 didn’t appeal to me either because the material just looked to fake for upwards of 40.00. So when I found this textured bag, it looks expensive but has an awesome price tag.

8. Michael Todd True Organics Moisture Lite Lotion– $29.00. I have hear rave reviews about this moisturizer and am dying to try something new. I have been using the Clinique moisturizer since high school, and I think my skin is getting used to it, so I need to try something new. I am willing to spend more money on my skin due to it being so sensitive. Also when you go to the website if you sign up for the e-mail you will get 10% off your first order..